Powering the Cayman Islands: The CUC Story

For more than fifty years, Caribbean Utilities Company, Ltd. (CUC) has been at the forefront of delivering reliable and sustainable energy to the Cayman Islands. As the primary electricity provider for Grand Cayman, CUC is committed to ensuring that homes, businesses, and public services receive the energy they need. This commitment to service, innovation, and community has defined CUC’s history and continues to shape the vision for the future.

Our Foundation

CUC was founded in 1966 to meet the growing demand for a centralised and dependable power supply in the Cayman Islands. At the time, electricity was generated by small, independent operators using diesel-powered generators. Recognising the need for more efficient infrastructure, CUC stepped in to modernise energy production and distribution. Over the decades, CUC has steadily expanded its capabilities to meet the increasing electricity demand, ensuring that customers enjoy reliable power.

Power Generation and Supply

The power generation system has evolved significantly. Today, CUC operates one of the most advanced power plants in the Caribbean, located on North Sound Road, with a total installed capacity of 166 megawatts. Although diesel remains the primary energy source, CUC is actively seeking to diversify Grand Cayman’s energy mix through renewable energy initiatives, particularly utility-scale solar power.

To maintain operational efficiency and minimise disruptions, CUC follows strict maintenance schedules and invests in continuous system upgrades. This approach ensures that the equipment operates at peak performance, enabling the Company to provide consistent service and reduce the likelihood of outages.

Commitment to Environmental Responsibility

CUC is deeply committed to protecting the environment while delivering reliable energy. In 2004, CUC became the first organisation in the Cayman Islands to receive ISO 14001 certification, underscoring The Company’s adherence to internationally recognised environmental standards. In 2018, CUC achieved registration under the updated ISO 14001:2015 standard. In 2024, CUC received its recertification of this standard demonstrating the Company’s ongoing commitment to sustainability and environmental stewardship. 

A key part of CUC’s environmental strategy involves integrating renewable energy into operations. CUC is investing in solar energy and supporting the National Energy Policy 2024-2045, which aims to reduce reliance on fossil fuels and contribute to global efforts to combat climate change. CUC also focuses on waste management and recycling within the facilities, promoting energy conservation, and educating the community on sustainable practices.

A Strong Community Partner

CUC is not just an energy provider, but an active participant in the Cayman Islands community. The Company’s corporate social responsibility initiatives focus on education, youth development, and environmental sustainability. Through the Company’s Community Outreach Programme, CUC supports local schools, provides scholarships, and promotes STEM education. CUC believes that empowering the next generation is crucial for the long-term success of the Cayman Islands, and as a Company, we are proud to play a role in that effort.

CUC’s community engagement goes beyond education. The Company sponsors local events, contributes to charities, and participates in initiatives that enhance the quality of life on the island. Whether through sports sponsorships or environmental cleanups, CUC is committed to giving back to the community that has supported the Company for decades.

Investing in a Sustainable Future

As the Company looks to the future, CUC focuses on three strategic pillars: infrastructure development, renewable energy, and technological innovation. Infrastructure projects include expanding and modernising our power distribution networks and constructing new substations to accommodate future growth and improve system reliability.

Renewable energy is central to the Company’s long-term strategy. By 2037, CUC aims to have more electricity come from renewable sources. This goal requires significant investments in solar projects and partnerships with local and international stakeholders.

Technological advancements are also crucial to the CUC strategy. We are continuing to explore smart grid technology to enhance the efficiency of the electricity network, providing customers with greater control over their energy use. Additionally, CUC is supporting the adoption of electric vehicles (EVs) by investing in the necessary infrastructure to facilitate their growth in Grand Cayman.

Get Involved in Our Journey

At CUC, creating a sustainable energy future requires collaboration. As a company, we encourage customers and community members to participate in energy conservation efforts and various initiatives to reduce energy consumption and environmental impact. By working together, we can help build a more resilient energy future for the Cayman Islands.

CUC is proud to be Grand Cayman’s energy provider. The Company’s unwavering commitment to reliability, sustainability, and community engagement ensures that we will continue to serve the people of Grand Cayman for years to come.

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